An Examination of Current Practices and Perceptions of Career Readiness Counselling Among Grade 12 Students in American Private Schools in Dubai

Abstract

Career readiness counselling has become a crucial concept in the education system in most countries, because when students are career ready, they are prepared for the next steps in their life, whether it is pursuing a college degree or getting a job. The aim of this research is to examine the current career readiness counselling practices and perceptions among grade 12 students in the American private schools of Dubai to find out the best opportunities that assist in preparing students for university and career transition. Several theories are explored to build the theoretical framework of the research: Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Theory, Lent et al.’s Social Cognitive Career Theory, Holland’s Vocational Personalities Theory, and Super’s Life-Span Life-Space Theory. The research employs a mixed-methods approach to provide a comprehensive analysis. The key findings of the study reveal that career counsellors in the participating schools play a multifaceted role extending beyond individual student guidance. However, the absence of formal policies defining their roles leads to inconsistencies in effective service delivery. Career counselling mostly occurs during the later years of high school, with both students and counsellors suggesting that starting earlier would be more beneficial for students. The findings also reveal that there is a limited integration of career readiness counselling within the school curriculum. The most influencing factors on students’ career decisions include academic performance, expected salary, job opportunities, and parental expectations. While students feel confident in aligning careers with their interests, there is variability in practical skills as there are limited possibilities for students to participate in practical opportunities and internships. Based on the key findings, the thesis identifies a number of recommendations that assist in preparing students for university and career transition.

Keywords: career guidance, career counsellors, career readiness, career exploration, career interests, self-efficacy, outcome expectations